The National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced significant changes to the NEET UG 2025 exam pattern, marking a return to the pre-COVID structure. As per the revised NEET 2025 exam pattern, section B from all subject papers has been removed, eliminating optional questions.
Consequently, the total number of questions in NEET 2025 changed pattern has been reduced from 200 to 180, and the exam duration has been adjusted to 3 hours instead of 3 hours and 20 minutes. This streamlined pattern now includes 45 mandatory questions each from Physics, Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology, making a total of 720 marks.
NEET UG remains the sole gateway for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate medical courses in India, making it imperative to stay updated with these changes. The revised pattern not only simplifies the structure but also demands a sharper focus on preparation strategies, time management, and conceptual clarity. Read on to understand the detailed breakdown of the new NEET 2025 exam pattern and its implications for aspirants.
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is the most significant medical entrance exam in India, providing a gateway for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate courses like MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH programs. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET is the only national-level medical entrance exam and is a mandatory requirement for admission to medical colleges in India.
The NEET 2025 exam is scheduled to be conducted on May 4, 2025. The application process is expected to begin in March 2025, with registration available through the official NTA website. Candidates are advised to monitor the official website for timely updates regarding the application form, correction window, and other announcements.
| Subject | Number of questions | Total time | Total marks |
| Physics | 45 | 45 minutes | 180 |
| Chemistry | 45 | 45 minutes | 180 |
| Botany | 45 | 45 minutes | 180 |
| Zoology | 45 | 45 minutes | 180 |
| Total | 180 questions | 180 minutes | 720 marks |
| Subject | Sections | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
| Physics | Section A | 35 | 140 |
| Section B | 15 (10 to be answered) | 40 | |
| Chemistry | Section A | 35 | 140 |
| Section B | 15 (10 to be answered) | 40 | |
| Botany | Section A | 35 | 140 |
| Section B | 15 (10 to be answered) | 40 | |
| Zoology | Section A | 35 | 140 |
| Section B | 15 (10 to be answered) | 40 | |
| Total | 200 (180 to be answered) | 720 | |
Below are the detailed changes and their impact on preparation:
| Aspect | Previous Pattern | Revised Pattern (2025) |
| Total Questions | 200 (180 to be answered) | 180 |
| Sections | Section A: 35 questions Section B: 15 questions (10 to be answered) | Single section of 45 questions |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology | Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology |
| Marks Distribution | 720 total (Physics: 180, Chemistry: 180, Botany: 180, Zoology: 180) | Same as previous |
| Exam Duration | 3 hours 20 minutes | 3 hours |
With these changes, students need to adapt their preparation strategies to meet the revised requirements:
With the removal of optional questions, every question must be answered. Students should emphasize understanding concepts thoroughly to tackle the mandatory questions effectively.
The reduction in exam duration necessitates efficient time management. Students must practice completing all 180 questions within the allocated 180 minutes during mock tests and practice sessions.
Without optional questions, students can no longer rely on selectively answering questions. Comprehensive coverage of the syllabus and equal focus on all topics are essential.
No, the syllabus for NEET 2025 has not been reduced. The changes introduced by the NTA pertain only to the exam pattern, such as the removal of Section B and a reduction in the number of questions. Students must prepare the entire syllabus as specified by the NTA.
Yes, Section B has been removed from NEET 2025. Previously, each subject had Section A with 35 mandatory questions and Section B with 15 optional questions (10 of which had to be answered). Now, the exam features only one section per subject with 45 mandatory questions.
The number of attempts for NEET 2025 remains the same as in previous years. There is no restriction on the number of attempts for NEET, and candidates can appear for the exam as long as they meet the age and eligibility criteria set by the NTA.
Yes, the NEET 2025 exam pattern has been changed by the NTA. The key changes include:
These changes streamline the exam format and align it with the pre-COVID pattern.
To prepare effectively for NEET 2025, follow these strategies: